We have been making progress on the Riverwalk construction in front of Port City Marina. The concrete walkway and railings are nearly complete, the light poles and flag poles are up, and the benches are in place. Thanks to everyone who has worked hard to get us this far.

The view from the top is always the best! Add a little excitement to your happy-hour cocktail or night out by taking in the views of downtown Wilmington from one of our rooftop bars. You may choose to go early and grab a drink while you catch the sunset over the Cape Fear River, or venture out a little later and experience the city’s nightlife. An open-air, rooftop bar is also a great way to enjoy the fantastic weather we have in Wilmington. Below are a couple of great rooftop bars found downtown.

Nestled high in the heart of historic Wilmington, at the top of an old Masonic temple, is one of the best rooftop views in town. Level 5 is a rooftop bar with live music and a fantastic open-air view of downtown Wilmington. If you are looking to party, this bar has more of a ‘nightclub’ scene at night; with daily drink/shot specials, a DJ, and a dance floor.

Level 5 is open 7 days a week at 5 p.m. and is located at 21 N. Front Street in downtown Wilmington.

This is a bustling three story bar and restaurant in historic downtown Wilmington. There are plenty of options for a fun night out at this establishment. Enjoy dining at the restaurant, listen to live music in the out-door courtyard, play pool on the second floor, and of course, take in the views from the rooftop bar overlooking the Cape Fear River. Reel Café offers lunch, dinner and a late-night menu. They also have daily drink specials and live music.

Reel Café is open 7 days a week till 2 a.m. and is located at 100 S. Front Street in downtown Wilmington.

On the fourth Friday evening of every month, the city’s artists, galleries, and arts paces open up their doors for a glimpse into Wilmington’s thriving arts scene. Named Fourth Friday, the event is also known by locals as Gallery Nights and the Art Walk. Art enthusiasts and anyone looking to experience the art culture in Wilmington will enjoy these free, self-guided tours in historic downtown.

When: Takes place from 6 to 9pm on the fourth Friday of each month

Where: Fourth Friday is held in Historic Downtown Wilmington. Various galleries, studios and art spaces participate. For a full list of venues visit this website.

Info: The Arts Council of Wilmington offers Fourth Friday Gallery Night in downtown Wilmington. This is a free monthly event where several galleries, studios and art spaces open their doors to the public in an after-hours celebration of art and culture. Fourth Friday consists of an evening of self-guided tours through galleries, studios, art spaces; featuring exhibitions of various artistic genres. Fourth Fridays also includes opening receptions, artist discussions, demonstrations, live music, wine, food and other traditional and nontraditional art-related activities.

Check out Fourth Friday for a look at Wilmington’s buzzing arts scene. Spend an evening in historic downtown viewing local art, listening to music and drinking wine. For more information call the Arts Council of Wilmington at (910) 343-0998.